Water and hydration
How do I get my dog to drink more water?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
Try adding a splash of low-sodium broth or a little water to their food, offering multiple bowls in different rooms, switching to a pet fountain if your dog seems drawn to moving water, and washing bowls daily so the water always tastes fresh. Most dogs respond to at least one of these simple changes within a few days.
Make the water more appealing
A splash of unsalted chicken or beef broth, a few ice cubes, or a small amount of the liquid from tinned fish can all make plain water more interesting to a dog that drinks too little. Rotating flavors occasionally keeps the novelty rather than the dog getting bored of the same addition.
Change how and where water is offered
Some dogs drink more from a fountain because moving water seems fresher to them, while others prefer a wide, shallow bowl over a narrow, deep one that touches their whiskers uncomfortably. Adding a second or third bowl around the house, especially near favorite resting spots, removes the effort of finding water.
Rule out simple deterrents
Wash bowls daily, since a slimy biofilm can build up within a day or two and put dogs off drinking. Check that the bowl is not placed near a loud appliance, a busy walkway, or another pet that guards the space.
Key takeaways
- A splash of broth or a little fish liquid can make water more appealing.
- Some dogs prefer moving water from a fountain over a still bowl.
- Wide, shallow bowls suit dogs bothered by whisker contact with the sides.
- Daily washing and a calm bowl location remove common, simple deterrents.